Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts in a creamy garlic butter sauce. This recipe shines with its rich flavors and is quick to prepare, making it perfect for family dinners or impressing guests at gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both comforting and elegant. Let this dish become your go-to for busy weeknights or special occasions!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This garlic butter chicken cooks in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and apple vinegar creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the chicken’s taste.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with rice, pasta, or veggies for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Family Favorite: Its deliciousness will quickly earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation.
• Easy Ingredients: With common ingredients, this recipe is budget-friendly and accessible.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Butter Chicken effortlessly, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Slotted spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows for even cooking of the chicken without overcrowding.
• Slotted spatula: This tool helps lift the chicken from the pan while leaving behind excess sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness (4 average-sized breasts))
• 1 to 2 teaspoons 21 Salute Seasoning or poultry seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup white apple vinegar or chicken broth (or as necessary)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or more if you want extra sauce)
• 1 tablespoon garlic (finely minced; or to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 teaspoons fresh parsley (optional for garnishing)

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Add the olive oil to a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat.
1. Place the pounded chicken in the skillet.
2. Season evenly with 21 Salute seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook undisturbed for 5 minutes until golden brown.
4. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes until cooked through.

Step 2: Rest the Chicken

Remove the chicken using a slotted spatula and place it on a plate to rest while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Deglaze the Skillet

Carefully add apple vinegar (or broth) to deglaze the skillet.
1. Allow it to bubble up for several seconds to lift any brown bits from cooking.

Step 4: Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce

Add butter to the skillet and let it melt completely while stirring continuously for about a minute.

Step 5: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about one minute.

Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Turn off the heat. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it well in the garlic butter sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with parsley if desired and serve immediately for an irresistible meal!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad: A light mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes drizzled with vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, parmesan cheese, croutons, and creamy dressing for a rich contrast.

Complement with Rice or Grains

• Steamed Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice absorbs the delicious garlic butter sauce perfectly.
• Quinoa: A nutritious alternative that adds a nutty flavor to your plate.

Add Flavorful Vegetables

• Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with olive oil and seasoning for a crunchy side.
• Sautéed Spinach: Quickly cooked spinach with garlic enhances the overall flavor profile.

Garnish for Presentation

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens up the garlic butter flavors.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken

To achieve the best results when making Garlic Butter Chicken, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Evenly Pounded Chicken: It ensures uniform cooking, allowing for tender pieces throughout.
• Let it Rest: Giving the chicken time to rest after cooking allows juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
• Control the Heat: Cook over medium-high heat to achieve a perfect sear without burning the garlic.
• Deglaze Properly: Use apple vinegar or broth to scrape up brown bits; this adds depth to your sauce.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning during cooking for a personalized flavor that suits your palate.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken

When serving Garlic Butter Chicken, choosing complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic pair wonderfully with the rich chicken sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy green option that balances out the meal while adding color.
3. Pasta Primavera: Colorful veggies tossed with pasta create a lively accompaniment to your chicken dish.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory flavors.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the garlic butter sauce splendidly.
6. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and vegetables makes for a refreshing side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Butter Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcrowding the Pan: If you place too many chicken pieces in the skillet at once, they will steam instead of sear. Ensure there’s enough space between each piece for even cooking.

• Ignoring the Resting Time: Skipping the resting time after cooking can lead to dry chicken. Letting it rest allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.

• Using Too Much Heat: Cooking on high heat can burn the garlic and create a bitter taste. Stick to medium heat when adding garlic to your butter sauce for optimal flavor.

• Not Seasoning Properly: Failing to season your chicken adequately can result in bland flavors. Be generous with salt and spices; taste as you go for best results.

• Neglecting Deglazing: If you skip deglazing, you miss out on a flavorful sauce made from browned bits left in the pan. Always deglaze with vinegar or broth after cooking the chicken.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure it cools down before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2–3 months without significant loss of quality.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of broth or water, then add the chicken. Cover and cook until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Garlic Butter Chicken?

Garlic Butter Chicken is a quick and easy dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. It combines savory flavors with simplicity, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

How do I make Garlic Butter Chicken more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary, using different seasonings, or incorporating lemon juice for brightness. Experiment with your favorite ingredients!

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes! While boneless skinless chicken breasts work best, you can also use thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust cooking times accordingly until they reach safe internal temperatures.

Is Garlic Butter Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and reheats nicely, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Prepare a batch at the beginning of the week for quick lunches or dinners.

How can I customize my Garlic Butter Chicken recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli during cooking. You can also swap apple vinegar for lemon juice or use different spices according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile! Its rich flavors make it appealing to both kids and adults alike. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your family’s tastes. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try, and enjoy mouthwatering meals that everyone will love!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Garlic Butter Chicken

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Garlic Butter Chicken is a delectable dish that marries tender chicken breasts with a luscious garlic butter sauce, creating an unforgettable flavor experience. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. The rich combination of garlic, butter, and apple vinegar elevates the chicken’s natural taste, making it a family favorite. Pair it with your choice of rice, pasta, or fresh vegetables for a well-rounded meal that impresses guests and satisfies cravings alike. This delightful dish is not only comforting but also elegant, ensuring it earns a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

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Ingredients

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• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 to 2 teaspoons 21 Salute Seasoning or poultry seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup white apple vinegar or chicken broth
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon garlic (finely minced)
• Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add pounded chicken and season with seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until golden brown.
3. Flip the chicken and cook another 5 minutes until fully cooked. Remove from skillet to rest.
4. Deglaze the skillet with apple vinegar or broth for about one minute.
5. Stir in butter until melted and then add minced garlic; cook until fragrant.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and coat thoroughly in the sauce.
7. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve immediately.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 120mg